Re: [Harp-L] comparing Suzuki Manji and Beta-harp in C

["Ben Bouman" <fitgo@xxxxxxxxxx>]

Hmmmm... for some reason the video is indeed like it was taken on a mirror...so no, i'm not playing upside down. I'll check the settings because I never had this before  :-((

I listened again carefuly and it is a pity how the sound has changed because of the upload. The original recording is so much better. And yes, there are differences in sound. 
The Manji has more overtones/highs/harmonics..some people say: more crispy. I prefer the sound of my beta-harp but maybe that is because I'm so used it since I was heavily involved in developing the 1847 ( testing reeds/reed profiles, setting up harps etc etc).
Also the side vents in the covers of the Manji make a big difference. The ear will pick up more of the high frequencies through the tiny holes , the coverplates of the beta-harp don't have side vents but the material is thicker  and therefore you get a different feel in your hands/fingertips while playing. The Manji vibrates a little more, not because of the comb but ( to me!) because of the coverplates. 

But all in all the Manji is a nice harp after some tweaking !
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kvrEv9anSmI



Ben Bouman
www.beta-harps.com
www.harmonicainstituut.nl
www.marble-amps.com
www.harmonicaheaven.nl

  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: venkyr@xxxxxxx 
  To: Ben Bouman ; Harp-L@xxxxxxxxxx 
  Sent: Thursday, December 24, 2009 12:02 AM
  Subject: Re: [Harp-L] comparing Suzuki Manji and Beta-harp in C


  Ben,
  Are you playing the harps upside down like Butterfield or is it all mirrors? The beta harp clearly sounds better. So it's not all about the combs- was clearly the selling point for Manji at the time it was first presented to me.
  Venky
www.myspace.com/harpdad